Lot 11
  • 11

Unsigned, Augsburg

Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 USD
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Description

  • A COPPER GILT CRUCIFIX CLOCKEARLY 17TH CENTURY
  • HEIGHT 13 1/2 IN (34 CM)
• gilt verge movement, now lacking, stackfreed and balance assembly, engraved barrels • count-wheel engraved with Arabic numerals • crucifix case surmounted with a brass ball fitted with a revolving silver chapter ring engraved with Arabic hour numerals, further mounted by a spread-winged bird looking downward, the cross flanked by standing figures of Mary and John the Baptist and with a skull and crossbones at the base, the cross further fitted with openwork scrolls • the movement contained within an engraved balustrade gallery hinged to reveal the movement and mounted upon a spreading base engraved with flowers and scrolls, raised on three brass feet

Condition

As catalogued, it is now partially lacking the stackfreed and balance assembly. The cam countwheel and top plate and movement have sustained significant rust, likely from a period of where the piece was kept hidden buried in the ground. Some of the rust has been removed in more accessible locations. The movement will require a thorough overhaul and rebuilding of the stackfreed and balance assembly in order to work. The case is now also lacking the locking pin for the movement housing. The attached scrolls are possibly later decorations, as is the top mounted bird. There are some other areas of rust to the case. The base has an area where the engraving has been worn sufficiently to obscure the engraving.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Catalogue Note

For similar crucifix clocks see Maurice, K., Die Deutsche Räderuhr, C.H. Beck, Munich, 1976, figs. 407-412.